Terry Collins and Dan Warthen would like the front office to retain Mike Pelfrey next season, according to Adam Rubin of ESPN New York.

“I know Terry [Collins] and I are very hopeful that Mike Pelfrey will come back – whether it be in the bullpen or as a starter,” Dan Warthen said, according to Rubin.

However, Warthen added that cost could be an issue when it comes to bringing Pelfrey back in 2013.

Pelfrey pitched to a 2.29 ERA with 13 strikeouts in 19 2/3 innings over three starts in April.

He was placed on the disabled list in late April after an MRI revealed swelling in his right elbow – he underwent Tommy John Surgery on May 1, and his recovery is expected to take approximately 12 months.

Pelfrey signed a one-year, $5.7 million contract with the Mets in January. He is eligible for arbitration for the final time this winter, and can become a free agent after the 2013 season.

Per MLB rules, Pelfrey cannot earn less than 80 percent – or $4.56 million – through the arbitration process.

Michael Baron, Contributor

Posted Sept. 4: I know a lot of people have been down on Pelfrey, as I have been during his tenure with the Mets. But I wouldn’t be surprised at all if the Mets non-tender Pelfrey this winter and look to bring him back on a Minor League deal. There’s just nothing to lose if they go down that route. Even though they seem to have some depth in the rotation heading into next season, it makes sense to add Pelfrey to the equation – they don’t know what Johan Santana is capable of next season, and Dillon Gee is returning from an unusual injury as well. Bringing Pelfrey back would also allow him to continue and finish his rehab in a facility and with people he is familiar with, and the Mets could see how he progresses as he gets closer to being ready to pitch, which should be around May 1 or so.